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Infiniti Unveils Tesla-Fighting LE Concept

If you’re waiting for a major automaker to fire the first shot across Tesla’s bow, the Infiniti LE Concept is it. Largely based on the bits that make up the Nissan LEAF, the LE is set to be the first mass-market luxury EV when it goes on sale in 2014. That sound you hear is Elon Musk nervously drumming his fingers on his desk.

The Infiniti LE Concept makes its world debut at the New York Auto Show and comes in at 186.4 inches in overall length – about the same size as the automaker’s entry-level G37 sedan.

Motivation is provided by a 100 kW synchronous electric motor outputting 134 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque, a slight bump over the LEAF’s 110 hp and 210 lb-ft of twist. Juice comes courtesy of a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack mounted in the floor – the same capacity as its Nissan sibling. Same goes for the single-speed transmission, front MacPerson struts and torsion beam rear end, along with an estimated 100-mile range.

While the shape might not be overly inspiring, our sources at Infiniti tell us that the LE’s design is nearly 80 percent of production spec. Infiniti’s Vice President of the Americas Ben Poore takes it even further, saying, “Most of what you see in the LE Concept will become a reality, including its zero emission powertrain, advanced telematics, cutting-edge design, advanced connected services and premium appointments.” That includes the 0.25 coefficient of drag and the integration of a wireless charging system that incorporates an inductive coil system that can be installed in the owner’s garage.

Far more interesting is the LE’s interior, which integrates Infiniti’s current design language and includes LED lighting, a digital display, analog gauges and a new infotainment and telematics system with dual displays powered by an Intel Atom processor. In addition to Infiniti’s Connection features (navigation, point-of-interest search, and Internet access), the LE will also come standard with the automaker’s Personal Assistant 24-hour concierge service.

All this adds up to a very compelling package from a major player in the automotive space. If Tesla isn’t nervous yet, they will be when the production version of the LE goes on sale in two years’ time.